1. Background. There are in the Pikes Peak region a significant number of space operations, space science, astronomy and technology organizations that operate relatively independently from one another and for the most part anonymously from public awareness. Space Commands, aerospace and technology industries, universities and research labs are engaged in exciting, cutting edge, future looking, activities crucial to the security and competitiveness of this nation. These activities are mostly inaccessible to the public or to educational institutions preparing young people for the future.

1. Military Space. More specifically, military space operations are heavily concentrated in Colorado Springs. NORAD, U.S. Space Command, Air Force Space Command and Army Space Command are all headquartered in Colorado Springs. Many subordinate organizations that are engaged in space operations – from space surveillance to satellite control – are located in the Pikes Peak region. Aerospace industry supporting the military space activities abounds in the region as well.
2. Public interest. Civic leader groups hosted by the Space Commands are consistently "wowed" by the briefings and tours of space operations. They typically come with little or no concept of the advanced technology and capabilities being employed every day. With only an unclassified exposure to the missions, they are astounded by the "Buck Rogers" capabilities and the enormity of it all. Public tours of NORAD and Cheyenne Mountain have drawn upwards of 40,000 visitors annually – without marketing or advertising. These tours were recently eliminated for justifiable reasons, but the public interest endures. That there is strong public interest in these topics is further validated by the popularity of fictional military scenarios offered on TV and films. Moreover, there is no place anywhere in the World that provides public exhibits and programs describing military space applications and the global security that results.
3. USAF Academy & Space. Across town from this concentration of military space activities, Colorado Springs is privileged to be home to the United States Air Force Academy as well. Here the Air Force leadership of the future is being prepared. Cadets are engaged in demanding academic, military and athletic education and training focused on future requirements of the Air Force. Much of the future military requirement will be centered on space. While there are some fine examples of cadets engaging in hands-on practical space applications projects, the fact remains that the interaction among "space operators" and the Air Force "future leaders" is not high. This is particularly noteworthy given the proximity of the two in Colorado Springs.
4. Universities and Research Labs. Space science, astronomy and technology are being addressed at several Pikes Peak region institutions of higher learning as well as private labs. Pikes Peak Observatory is one of several astronomy and optics oriented research organizations involved with new and exciting technology concepts. The Air Force Space Battlelab and National Test Facility push the edge of space applications and technology. While some of this work is classified or proprietary, much of it can be shared with the public as quite fascinating displays and programs to inspire further interest in these areas.
5. K-12 Education Community. Then there are the very young students – more commonly referred to as the K-12 community. They become interested and engaged in what they are exposed to. Much of that exposure is through TV, movies, videos and other entertainment. In virtually every other community in the United States, young people are exposed to science and technology by field trips and family visits to their local science centers. This is not an option today in the Colorado Springs community. Even in the midst of so much high-tech space related activity, it’s necessary to travel 500 miles and beyond to expose youngsters to these activities. And consider this: A youngster must begin preparations by the 5^th and 6^th grades if he or she is going to have a chance to participate in the exciting future worlds of space science, astronomy and technology. If they do not make the right decisions with respect to course work, these opportunities in their adult life more than likely will be foreclosed. A child can only make decisions about those things to which he or she is exposed. What kind of space science and technology exposure do young people get in the Pikes Peak region today?

2. The Concept. "The Launch Pad" -- Space Operations, Astronomy, & Education Fusion Center -- concept is designed to start providing that exposure and to develop a mechanism that can create lasting relationships between today’s promise and tomorrow’s opportunities. As a proof-of-concept small-scale science and technology center, "The Launch Pad" would incorporate displays, hands-on interactive exhibits, shows and programs as well as a regional education resource center. Collaborating with Space Command and the Pikes Peak Observatory, Academy faculty and cadets would be directly involved in designing and developing "The Launch Pad".

1. When successful, "The Launch Pad" will create a fusion between real-time space operations and USAFA cadets through joint projects, cooperative programs and regular collaborative activities.
2. "The Launch Pad" will create a connection for the public and K-12 communities with the military space operations and education systems by offering enlightening experiences and unique exposure to interesting topics not presented anywhere else in the World.
3. This facility will offer ancillary benefits as well such as USAF and Academy recruitment opportunities; military space heritage venues; USAFA / Colorado Springs community relations enhancements; and opportunities for positive national media attention.
4. "The Launch Pad" name implies the start of a journey. This conveys the notion that there is more to come. Most journeys have modest beginnings so this proposal is focused on a modest proof-of-concept and intended to develop broader support for something much bigger. The longer-range vision is a World-class science and technology center – "Space Journey" – that builds on the success of "The Launch Pad" and brings an exciting new dimension to the character of the Pikes Peak region. (See Attachment 2 for a more complete description of science centers and the vision for a science & technology center in the Pikes Peak region to be called "Space Journey".)

2. A Public-private partnership. Pikes Peak Observatory is proposing a public – private partnership with the USAF Academy and the Air Force Space Command to develop and implement the proof-of-concept prototype for a World-class space-theme science and technology center – "Space Journey".

1. The purpose of "The Launch Pad" partnership is five fold:

• Provide a venue to bring together USAFA cadets and selected staff of Space Command to connect today’s space requirements and practical applications with tomorrow’s leaders.

• Offer opportunities to expose young people to the exciting and rewarding opportunities in space science, astronomy and technology.

• Demonstrate for the public the significance of space science and technology activities that populate the Pikes Peak region.

• Serve as an education resource center for local schools and students by providing materials and information on space science, astronomy and technology.

• Validate the concept and develop broad support for the follow-on World-class science and technology center – "Space Journey".

• Space Operations
• Space Science
• Astronomy
• Space Technology
• Space Heritage

4. Methodology. There are six components to the proposed methodology that will lead to the creation of the Launch Pad.

• Organizations & Agreements
• People
• Plans and Programs
• Facilities
• Funding
• Operations

1. Organizations and Agreements. The organizations that would work in partnership to plan and implement "The Launch Pad" proof-of-concept are:

• United States Air Force Academy
• Air Force Space Command
• Pikes Peak Observatory, Inc.
• USAFA Association of Graduates

1. The USAF Academy is the key partner since the proposal focuses on enhancing the cadet experience and the proposed proof-of-concept facility is on Academy property. It is envisioned that the Academy faculty, the 34^th Education Group, Director of Plans, Civil Engineers and Public Affairs would all have some direct role in the project. All aspects of the project will provide opportunities for cadet involvement – both integrated with their curriculum and as extra curricular activities. Others such as the Director of Admissions, Athletic Association and Judge Advocate also may have an interest.
2. Air Force Space Command is a key partner as the resource manager for all Air Force space operations and requirements. As the "subject matter experts" and current operators, Air Force Space Command staff would be involved in many of the program elements of the project. Possible organizational involvement would be from Director of Operations, Plans and Requirements, Training, Public Affairs and the Space Warfare Center.
3. Pikes Peak Observatory, Inc. has as a major organizational goal to develop a "World-class Space and Technology Center -- "Space Journey" -- to complement the Research-grade Infrared Observatory being planned for the summit of Pikes Peak. "The Launch Pad" proof-of- concept is a critical element in the process. As a 501(c)(3) Colorado-based non-profit private organization, Pikes Peak Observatory, Inc. can access private and public resources beyond the reach of government organizations – thus the appeal of a public-private partnership to pursue this project. Pikes Peak Observatory also would provide subject matter expertise in astronomy and play a major leadership role.
4. The USAF Academy Association of Graduates is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that focuses on enhancing the cadet experience. They offer some business models and a great source of program support -- particularly though their Space Committee.
5. A specific agreement will define the terms, conditions and roles of the participants in "The Launch Pad" public-private partnership (or other business relationships). There are precedents for such agreements that could be used as models in drafting this agreement.

1. People. Success of any project – particularly a proof-of-concept – depends upon assembling the right team of people. Within the organizations discussed above reside some of the most talented people anywhere who possess among them the knowledge, experience and motivation to make this project succeed. Other sources include the museum / science & technology center industry, aerospace industry, entertainment industry, education community and military retired community. The initial proof-of-concept will not require a large number of full-time people; rather a small team representing all the relevant areas would design and manage the initial effort.
2. Plans and Programs. Success also is a function of sound plans and well-structured programs. Therefore, a crucial element of this project is creating good plans to include:

• Business plans
• Development plans
• Program plans
• Operating plans

1. Facilities. The proposed main facility for "The Launch Pad" proof-of-concept is the old Visitors’ Center building near the south gate of the Air Force Academy. This building and surrounding few acres has been used as the Academy Recycling Center in recent years and is currently scheduled for demolition next year after the Recycling Center is relocated to the logistics and support area on the Academy. The approximately 9,000 sq. ft. size, location, access and potential availability combine to make this an ideal facility for "The Launch Pad".

1. Refurbishment and some modifications are envisioned to transform the current building into "The Launch Pad" showpiece. Functionality tied to the programs will be the driving factor on the extent of the improvements and finish-out necessary. While simplicity will be one of the guiding principles, a certain amount of eye appeal will be necessary for public consumption.
2. "The Launch Pad" will be the primary facility for the proof-of-concept project; however, it is envisioned that the programs developed will involve coordination with other facilities such as the Academy Planetarium and Observatory, Space Command ops centers, etc.
3. Community outreach also will be an important component of the concept. When successful, "The Launch Pad" will become a well-known and highly regarded addition to both the Academy cadet experience and Academy community relations through its education and entertainment opportunities.

1. Funding. The cost of implementing "The Launch Pad" proof-of-concept is yet to be determined. Much will depend upon the level of support the concept receives from the Air Force Academy and Space Command leadership. Cost areas requiring estimates include: facility modifications and finish-out; exhibits; shows; programs; materials; staff; marketing and advertising and operations.

1. With appropriate institutional support, development funds can be sought form a variety of sources such as:

• Aerospace Industry
• NASA
• NSF
• State of Colorado
• Foundations
• Association of Graduates
• Falcon Foundation
• Individuals

1. Operating revenue can be generated through admissions, fees, sales, etc. as well as from some of the above sources.
2. Given success, "The Launch Pad" team can seek additional public funding.

1. Operations. Operating "The Launch Pad" would be a joint effort as defined in the agreements. Pikes Peak Observatory as the "private" participant in the partnership would have the greatest flexibility to hire and manage staff. It also is easier for a private organization to engage vendors and other support services. Other partners would contribute to the operations as appropriate and as legally permitted.

These are only a few initial thoughts of what might be offered at "The Launch Pad" for cadet, public and young student experiences. What is actually offered is limited only by the imaginations of those involved in the planning and implementation. Cost is always a factor but creativity is more important. Some very effective experiences can be produced for relatively modest costs. The examples are categorized only for ease of reading – not necessarily in any priority. Before addressing specific areas, there are a few general considerations.

1. General.

1. The first experience must be one of being in a special place. This is established with the overall look and feel of the facility. A sense of anticipation can be established with external treatment of the building, the surrounding grounds and the approach road. Appropriate signage and entryways are important to establishing the "place". Inside, models hanging from above, decorative structures, lighting and sounds all contribute to establishing the learning atmosphere.
2. Each of the disciplines or themes listed below can be presented and treated in any of a variety of ways – graphics, scale-models, videos, multimedia shows, demonstrations, interactive exhibits, simulations, supplemental printed resources or actually doing projects. Time, space and resources will drive the choices of treatment. Treatment for topics addressed in "The Launch Pad" proof-of-concept project most likely would be modest; however, quality and credibility are essential throughout. There also should be sufficient creative technology employed to demonstrate the potential for the full-up "Space Journey" science and technology center.
3. Functionality is critical. Classrooms and labs are where many of the "fusion" activities will occur. A small theater and multi-use conference area would complement simulations and other interactive learning aids. Logical "flow" through the public areas should both tell a story and provide opportunities to learn about selected topics. Public restrooms and facility maintenance areas also would need to be incorporated.

1. Space Operations. A major focus of "The Launch Pad" will be space operations with emphasis on military space since it is dominant in Colorado Springs. Other space operations topics may well be of interest to cadets and the public – for example, Space Shuttle and International Space Station. Here are a few:

1. Space surveillance and missile warning. This is an obvious topic given the mission and proximity of NORAD and U.S. Space Command and the public interest shown. Lots of potential to demonstrate this fascinating topic in a variety of ways.
2. Satellite operations – GPS, MILSTAR, DMSP, etc. all have great potential for creative demonstration and interactive participation.
3. Earth sensing is another area of military, civil and commercial application represented heavily in Colorado. Much of the current military Earth sensing mission is classified but more and more of the history in this area is being declassified – Corona is an example.
4. Space Shuttle with emphasis on some of the unclassified national defense missions.
5. International Space Station.
6. Space Fundamentals – launch, orbital mechanics, weather, communications, telemetry, tracking, control, navigation, etc.
7. Perhaps unclassified military missions presentations.

1. Space Science. Operational space topics and activities are interesting but the science involved also can be demonstrated in compelling ways. Beyond this, the International Space Station and other unmanned spacecraft are dedicated to scientific pursuits. Some examples:

1. Microgravity research
2. Medical research
3. Combustion
4. Biological
5. Etc.

1. Astronomy. Astronomy is part of the core curriculum at the Academy (?) and is a major focus of the Pikes Peak Observatory. In addition to describing the planned IR Observatory to be incorporated into the new summit house on Pikes Peak, several other astronomical topics can be addressees.

1. Hubbell Space Telescope (models available from NASA)
2. Chandra X-ray Space Telescope
3. Space Infrared Telescope
4. Next Generation Space Telescope
5. Fundamentals of the Solar System and the Cosmos
6. Etc.

1. Space Technology offers a rich array of opportunities for "The Launch Pad". Fundamental technologies from the perspective of how things highlighting the differences between terrestrial or atmospheric and space. Another entire aspect of space technology is the transfer to commercial applications. Again, Colorado Springs and the Rocky Mountain Front Range have several companies engaged in developing or producing space technology related products. Examples are numerous and would be selected based on local interests.
2. Space Heritage is beginning to draw broader public interest. Military space heritage is spread wide but today it all connects in Colorado Springs. The current and immediate past Commanders of Air Force Space Command are Academy graduates. The Academy has produced more than XX astronauts and countless space operations officers through the years. Furthermore, there is no place today that pulls together the entire military space story. What better place than on the Academy to tell this tale in creative and interesting ways.

Clearly, all these topics could not be addressed in the small facility at "The Launch Pad"; however, it would be necessary to feature a good representative sampling for a valid proof-of-concept. Determining which topics to deal with and how to present them will be an exciting opportunity in itself for "The Launch Pad" development team – envisioned to be comprised of Academy staff and faculty. Cadets, Space Command staff, Pikes Peak Observatory staff, Association of Graduates staff and others.

The opportunity is here and the need is real.

Pikes Peak Observatory is facilitating cooperation among a number of organizations to seize the opportunity to create a world-class science and technology center for the Pikes Peak region and Colorado that will fill an enormous void. This paper describes what this facility is and why the opportunity is so important to our area.

Suffice to say as an introduction that for such a high technology, space oriented community not to have a first-rate science and technology center up and operating long ago, indeed is a paradox – but one that presents an exciting opportunity. The very industries that drive Colorado’s booming economy and the research that fuels those industries today are transparent to residents and tourists alike. Further it is a disservice to our young people in the area not to expose them to the exciting opportunities that await their involvement in the future – at an early enough age for them to make proper decisions in what they should study in school to be prepared.

In a word, science and technology centers are an advanced form of interactive museums. They are places where people go to have rich experiences not common to their everyday lives. Science and technology centers are places to enjoy self-paced learning about important topics that affect our lives and our world yet are things to which we do not have routine exposure. This is known broadly as "informal science education", a rapidly growing field that is addressing our nations needs for new approaches to education from early childhood throughout life.

Science and technology centers are family places, destinations for school groups, venues for community events. And they are highly visible elements of a community’s character.

Typically -- although each science and technology center is unique -- the main attractions in these facilities are creative exhibits – interactive displays that demonstrate fundamental characteristics of the subjects at hand. These exhibits and displays are reinforced with regular live demonstrations – sometimes called "science theater" -- and educational programs ranging from individual computer-based interactive lessons and group workbook oriented classes to videos, films, field trips and even kids camps or elder hostels. Many have a planetarium and most have some form of large-format theater such as IMAX or I-Works. While some science centers are generic, many are a reflection of the local industry and economy. For example, Space Center Houston is adjacent to the NASA Johnson Space Center and The Tech Museum in San Jose reflects the computer industry of Silicon Valley. Interestingly, while all offer a range of education programs, not many science and technology centers actually "do science" or conduct research and development. This is a significant difference being planned into Space Journey – A Science & Technology Center in Colorado Springs. More on that later.

A medium size science and technology center might be 75,000 – 100,000 sq.ft. with roughly 60% of the area devoted to exhibits and public attractions. The remainder is administrative, utilities, maintenance, and related support functions. Most facilities are quite architecturally striking and prominently situated in their communities. Their sites, along with associated outdoor features become significant landmarks.

Science and technology centers connect people to their world and universe, much as aquariums bring the beauty and knowledge of the seas to land-based locations and zoos allow the public to experience the world’s animals "up close and personal." Most importantly, science and technology centers inspire awe in young people and entice them to prepare for their future by pursuing math, science and technology subjects in school – early enough to make a difference in their lives.

Where are these science and technology centers?

There are more than 1200 science and technology centers are all over the developed world with some 300 such facilities throughout the United States. However, there is none in the Pikes Peak region, Colorado or the entire Rocky Mountain area. The closest science centers to Colorado Springs are in Phoenix, Albuquerque, Dallas, St. Louis, Kansas City, Wichita -- and of all places, Hutchinson Kansas.

The time has come to make such an important informal science education element of the community readily available to the Pikes Peak region and Colorado – particularly given the significant space, science and technology based economy.

Colorado is America’s fourth largest "space state"; more than 75% of this country’s space launch capability is built in Colorado; aerospace and technology are Colorado’s #1 industry; significant space R&D and space-based commercial business populates the front range; and Colorado Springs is the "center of gravity" of global military space operations.

All of this is largely transparent to the local population and is not yet exploited by local tourism interests. Now it is time to add another important element to our sparkling community with a World-class facility that showcases the high-tech and space activities and adds a rich informal science education experience opportunity.

The "World-class" Space Journey facility as envisioned is a major capital project by any standard. Cost of similar facilities recently built in the United States range from $60 – 120 million. Rather than attempt pursuit a project of this magnitude, it would be wise to develop a more manageable proof-of-concept facility. An excellent model for this approach is The Tech Museum in San Jose. When the founders of that science center initially went to the Silicon Valley corporations for funding, they were told that most of the companies started modestly in someone’s garage and the science center should consider doing the same. Therefore, The Tech Museum was first established as The Garage and operated for its initial period in more modest facilities where exhibits and programs and public interests were tried and evaluated.

A similar approach is being proposed for Space Journey with "The Launch Pad" as a proof of concept phase. (See draft Proposal for Proposal for a Public – Private Partnership

"The Launch Pad" -- Space Operations, Space Science & Education Fusion Center

Proof of Concept)